David Cameron apologises to ex-Imam for 'misunderstanding' over Isil link

David Cameron apologises for "any misunderstanding" after calling former imam Sulaiman Ghani a supporter of Islamic State, Downing Street has said.

In the run-up to the local elections, the Prime Minister used question time in the Commons to accuse Labour's mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan of repeatedly sharing a platform with the ex-cleric, who he branded a backer of the jihadist organisation.

Sulaiman GhaniCredit:
Youtube

The Prime Minister made the allegation in the Commons after highlighting the fact that Suliman Gani, an iman from South London, has repeatedly shared a platform with Sadiq Khan, the former Mayor of London.

The premier told MPs: "Sulaiman Ghani, Mr Khan has appeared on a platform with him nine times.

"This man supports IS. He even shared a platform ... I think they are shouting down this point because they don't want to hear the truth.

"Anyone can make a mistake about who they appear on a platform with. We're not always responsible for what our political opponents say. But if you do it time after time after time it is right to question your judgment."

In reference to the Prime Minister's comments on Sulaiman Ghani, the Prime Minister was referring to reports that he supports an Islamic stateA Number 10 spokesman

A Number 10 spokesman said: "In reference to the Prime Minister's comments on Sulaiman Ghani, the Prime Minister was referring to reports that he supports an Islamic state.

"The Prime Minister is clear this does not mean Mr Ghani supports the organisation Daesh and he apologises to him for any misunderstanding."

Earlier in the day, Michael Fallon, the Defence Secretary, also apologised for making the same allegations against Mr Ghani.

Sadiq KhanCredit:
Yui Mok/PA Wire

While Mr Cameron was protected by Parliamentary privilege, Mr Fallon made similar comments on the radio.

During the interview on the BBC's Today Programme, Mr Fallon attributed the accusation to the BBC's Andrew Neil. The BBC has since retracted the claim and apologised to Mr Gani.

Mr Gani subsequently threatened to sue Mr Fallon. A spokesman for Mr Fallon said on Wednesday: “Had he been aware, he would not of course have quoted him and as soon he became aware he put the record straight. He naturally apologises for this inadvertent error.”